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Fear of Flying Medication
Key Information
- The Policy: We no longer provide prescriptions for diazepam (a sedative) to help patients cope with a fear of flying.
- The Reason: Medical guidance has changed significantly. Our main reason for this change is to ensure your safety while flying.
- The Goal: This guide explains the safety risks of using sedatives on flights and outlines safer, evidence-based alternatives that can help you overcome your fear.
The Safety Risks
Using a sedative like diazepam during a flight carries several important risks:
- Slower Reaction Times: Diazepam can make you drowsy and slow your reactions. In the rare event of an emergency on board, this could put you at greater risk.
- Breathing Problems: Sedatives can affect breathing, which may be made worse by the lower oxygen levels in an aircraft cabin.
- Dangerous Interactions: Diazepam can be addictive, and mixing it with alcohol can be dangerous.
Why It Does Not Treat the Problem
Diazepam is not designed to treat phobias. It may mask anxiety for a short time, but it does not address the underlying fear.
In some cases, it can even have the opposite effect and cause increased agitation.
For these reasons, GPs are no longer advised to prescribe it for fear of flying.
Effective Alternatives
The most effective approach is to treat the phobia itself. These alternatives can help you feel more in control and provide longer-term benefit without the risks of sedative medication.
- 1. Fear of Flying Courses: Many major airlines run evidence-based courses with high success rates. These often combine practical information from pilots with psychological support from therapists.
- 2. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): CBT is an effective talking therapy that teaches practical ways to manage anxious thoughts and feelings, offering a longer-term solution.
What Happens Next?
We understand this may be a disappointing change, but we strongly recommend these safer and more effective alternatives.
If you would like to discuss these options, please contact us.
Last reviewed: 13 April 2026
Next review due: 13 April 2029
CONTACT DETAILS
Bramhall Health Centre
66 Bramhall Lane South
Bramhall
Stockport
SK7 2DY
Telephone: 0161 983 5850
